We were lucky to catch up with Carlotta Romano recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Carlotta thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about the things you feel your parents did right and how those things have impacted your career and life.

Growing up as the eldest of four children, I was fortunate to have parents who knew how to strike the right chords in fostering my interests. One standout memory from my childhood was when, on a summer evening in Rome at the tender age of five, my parents, who are not musicians themselves, took me to a captivating classical concert. The stage was grand, with a pianist and a woman violinist stealing the spotlight. The magic of that moment left me in awe, inciting me to turn to my mom and express my wish to play the violin. Surprisingly, they didn’t dismiss my small-scale ambition. Fast forward to me wrestling with that complex instrument at home, producing noises that probably tested the patience of everyone within earshot. Yet, through it all, my parents stood by me. The violin, with its screeches and stumbles, became my comfort, offering a sense of clarity amidst the chaos. Looking back, my parents weren’t just spectators at a concert; they tuned into what I now believe was my true calling. Their unwavering support not only allowed me to explore my musical inclinations but also laid the groundwork for a broader appreciation of pursuing one’s authentic passion.

Carlotta, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Carlotta Romano, and I am a music composer for multimedia. What do I do? I create music for films and documentaries, music that seamlessly complements visual narration and, through my musical storytelling, adds greater strength to the images.

I was born in Italy, but I grew up in different countries such as the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom. This life journey in diverse places and cultures has not only shaped my personal experiences but has also significantly influenced my musical path. I position myself as a representative of my creative vision, combining my European heritage with modern production and Middle Eastern influences.

Currently residing in New York, I am about to complete my Master’s in MultiMedia Composition at NYU. This unique opportunity has been crucial in refining my preparation as a composer, allowing me to delve into various aspects of the craft. As I stand on the threshold of my next challenge, I bring with me not only technical skills but also a deep understanding of the emotional nuances inherent in the fusion of music and screen.

In the competitive landscape of the industry, I firmly believe that being a great composer is not enough to create excellent music. If the composer is seen as a solitary figure when writing their music, they must subsequently open themselves to dialogue with those who will put their images to that music. The ability to truly listen and understand the directors’ vision is crucial. That’s why I invest time in exploring the intricate relationship between narration and the soundtrack. Patience and trust in the creative process are virtues I have cultivated, vital for navigating the collaborative nature of film and multimedia production.

Looking to the future, I am eager to undertake personal projects that align with my creative vision. Venturing into unexplored musical territories, I aim to weave unique soundtracks that elevate cinematic experiences. Fearlessly experimenting and with a deep love for music, I am committed to creating the next innovative sound that will contribute to the unique identity of the project.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I feel like I have a few examples of resilience but let me share one that changed my life quite drastically.

After completing my Bachelor’s Degree in 2021 in Bristol, United Kingdom, I decided to reunite with my family living in the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, unaware of what the region held for my musical aspirations. I managed to secure a position as “Musician in Residence” at one of the leading British International schools in the Middle East.

This role, a combination of co-teaching music lessons for students aged three to seventeen, private singing sessions, and overseeing the Performing Arts Department, presented itself as an excellent opportunity for growth. However, despite the valuable experiences gained, I struggled with a persistent sense of not belonging. A year of juggling both roles – teaching at the school and conducting private lessons – brought me to a crossroads, making me question whether to stay in my comfort zone or pursue my lifelong dream of becoming a film composer. So, I made my choice and applied to institutions specializing in film composition, leading me to embark on this transformative journey in New York with NYU.

Perhaps I chose the more challenging and uncertain path, especially in the early stages of my career, but I resisted the appeal of a more comfortable life to pursue my true and profound calling.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

​​The most rewarding aspect of being a music creator lies in the profound freedom of expression. Every artist possesses a powerful expressive force that reveals itself in their art, whether it be music, painting, or dance. When I undertake new multimedia projects that allow me to delve deeply into characters and narratives, I find joy in connecting with the broad values they seek to represent. By stepping into the shoes of the characters and empathizing with their emotions, I can infuse my compositions with the specific feelings I aim to convey. Whether achieved through melodic choices or the selection of particular instruments, this engaging approach ensures that my creative output resonates authentically with the fundamental essence of the narrative, making the artistic process extremely enriching.

My ultimate goal is to intensify and make storytelling more powerful and emotional through the language of music. Storytelling is always the result of a team working together in harmony and a shared love and appreciation for a common vision.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.carlottaromano.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlottaromano_/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlotta-romano-6879711b5/